Definition of "serious" []

• Grave in quality or manner: gave me a serious look. (adjective)
• Carried out in earnest: engaged in serious drinking; serious study of Italian. (adjective)
• Deeply interested or involved: a serious card player. (adjective)
• Designed for and addressing grave and earnest tastes: serious art; serious music. (adjective)
• Not trifling or jesting: I'm serious: we expect you to complete the assignment on time. Her question was serious enough to deserve a thoughtful response. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Pávlovna, there are things which must be investigated and fully understood before they can be talked about, things too serious, too serious  ..."
• "She petted the friendly cat, her expression serious as she stared up at James."
• "Her eyes were alert, her expression serious and self-conscious and beautifully placid."